In a thrilling matchup at Boston, Alex Ovechkin continued to inch closer to NHL immortality, netting his 891st career goal, and bringing him ever closer to passing Wayne Gretzky’s legendary record. His decisive goal was part of a crucial 4-3 victory for the Washington Capitals over the Boston Bruins—a game that electrified fans and showcased the Capitals’ resilience.
Ovechkin wasted no time asserting his presence, scoring the first of his two goals with just under four minutes left in the first period. Snagging a cross-crease pass from Dylan Strome, he smoothly pushed the puck into an open net, giving the Capitals an early 2-0 lead. With 12 goals over his last 18 games and only eight left this season, the 39-year-old Russian sniper is well on his way to breaking Gretzky’s record, which once seemed insurmountable.
“It’s getting close,” said Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery, echoing the excitement that’s palpable among players and fans alike. Ovechkin’s pursuit of the all-time goal record has taken on even more significance this season, especially after he faced an injury setback. Coming into the season 42 goals shy of Gretzky’s mark, he encountered a roadblock when he broke his left leg in November, sidelining him for 16 games. However, since returning, he’s shown that his goal-scoring prowess remains intact, rekindling hopes for what seemed like an impossible milestone.
Capitals goaltender Charlie Lindgren shared the optimism that surrounds Ovechkin’s chase. “When he was out for a while, people were wondering if it was possible,” Lindgren reflected, “but anything’s possible with Alex Ovechkin. We’re enjoying this journey together, and it doesn’t feel like there’s any pressure.”
This season, Ovechkin also reached another significant milestone, becoming the 60th player in NHL history to record 700 assists, joining an elite club that includes names like Gretzky and Gordie Howe. Talk about a resume!
The Capitals bolstered their hold on the top spot in the Eastern Conference with contributions from Nic Dowd and Tom Wilson, who both found the back of the net. Lindgren stood tall in net, making 21 saves to help end a three-game losing streak for Washington.
Strome acknowledged the team’s mixed performance during the game, noting how despite a strong start, the Bruins fought back hard in the second period with goals from Vinni Lettieri and David Pastrnak, who notched a pair. However, it was Strome himself who put the Capitals back in the lead midway through the third period, deftly converting a rebound.
With Ovechkin’s current scoring pace, he is on track to eclipse Gretzky’s record in the penultimate game of the season against the New York Islanders on April 15—if he can maintain that rhythm. As the Capitals continue their push for the playoffs, all eyes will be on Ovechkin and his historic march toward surpassing one of the most hallowed records in all of sports. The excitement in D.C. is palpable, and if this game is any indication, the ride to history is sure to be exhilarating.
